The German branch of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, ADRA Germany, has once again received the Donation Seal from the German Central Institute for Social Issues (DZI). The DZI thus confirms ADRA's transparency and responsible use of donations.
ADRA Germany, officially called ADRA Deutschland e.V., has continuously been awarded the quality seal since 2007. It serves as a clear guide and reliable decision-making aid in the German donation system, according to ADRA spokesperson Andreas Lerg.
The DZI Donation Seal is linked to seven seal standards. The guidelines developed from these standards are reviewed by the DZI. These include, among other things, the existence of internal management and control mechanisms, and the informativeness of the annual financial reports. Transparency towards the public and whether the overall use of funds is economical and efficient are also reviewed.
Seven Donation Seal Standards
The DZI certifies that ADRA Deutschland e.V. complies with all seven Donation Seal standards: 1. The organization performs its work in accordance with its statutes. 2. Management and supervision are appropriately structured, clearly separated, and effectively exercised. 3. Advertising and public relations provide clear, truthful, factual, and open information. 4. The proportion of advertising and administrative expenses to total expenditures is low according to DZI standards ("low" = less than ten percent). The effectiveness of the use of funds is monitored, and the results are documented and published. 5. The remuneration paid by the organization takes into account the non-profit status, qualifications, level of responsibility, and industry standards. 6. Fundraising and use of funds, as well as the financial situation, are transparently documented and appropriately audited. 7. The organization reports openly and comprehensively on its work, structures, and finances.
"The renewed award of the DZI Seal of Approval is recognition of our work and a vote of confidence in our supporters," says Robert Schmidt, Deputy Chairman of the Board of ADRA Deutschland e.V. "Even in these currently challenging times, we remain fully committed to helping people in need around the world and promoting sustainable development."
ADRA Germany
ADRA Germany (ADRA Deutschland e.V.), based in Weiterstadt near Darmstadt, was founded in 1987 and has approximately 50 employees. It is part of the global ADRA network, which was established in 1956 and is supported by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The network consists of 108 independent national ADRA offices and carries out development cooperation projects and humanitarian aid in disaster relief worldwide. ADRA stands for Adventist Development and Relief Agency.
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